Intro

Kyle Denhoff, head of audience development for HubSpot Media, joined me to talk about how HubSpot has built one of the most effective media operations inside a tech company. We discuss how HubSpot’s practical, non-ideological approach to inbound marketing evolved into a full-fledged media business spanning newsletters, podcasts, and creator partnerships. Kyle shares how HubSpot balances editorial independence with business goals, the economics of building durable audience relationships, and why companies are better off thinking long-term rather than treating marketing like a vending machine. HubSpot's go-direct playbook offers a glimpse into how companies are rethinking owned media as a strategic asset, not just a marketing channel.

Thanks to Marigold for sponsoring this episode. See how Hearst UK uses Sailthru by Marigold and Marigold Liveclicker to connect with millions of readers daily using personalization that feels one-to-one. From onboarding to retention, read to learn their winning strategy.